About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Heathrow (LHR) to Linate (LIN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Milan. The right seat wins overall because the London departure views are the most dramatic and distinctive part of this route. The Alps crossing mid-flight is visible from both sides, and the Po Valley approach is relatively featureless. Securing the right seat for the London climb-out is the priority.
What can I see during takeoff from Heathrow in London?
During takeoff from Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Heathrow typically departs eastward on runways 09L/09R, so a right (south-facing) seat gives you views over central London as the aircraft climbs and turns southeast. You'll see the Thames snaking through the city, with the dense urban grid of west and central London spread below. Notable sights include: River Thames through central London, Wembley Stadium arch, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, the City of London skyline including the Shard.
What can I see when landing at Linate in Milan?
When landing at Linate (LIN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Linate sits on Milan's eastern edge and typically receives aircraft from the west or northwest. A left (south-facing) seat gives you the best view of the Po Valley approach and the Alps to the north, with the Milan urban area visible as you descend. The right seat faces north toward the Alps but the left seat captures the city itself on final. Notable sights include: Milan city centre and the urban agglomeration, Po Valley agricultural patchwork, Lake Como visible to the north on clear days, the Alps as a distant wall to the northwest.
How long is the flight from London to Milan?
The flight from Heathrow (LHR) to Linate (LIN) takes Approximately 2 hours.
What does the London to Milan flight path pass over?
The flight tracks southeast across France, crossing the French Alps — including Mont Blanc massif visible to the right (south) side — before descending into the Po Valley. The Alps crossing at cruise altitude offers a spectacular view of glaciated peaks and ridgelines from both sides, though the Mont Blanc group sits slightly to the right of the typical track. The Jura mountains appear earlier as a lower, forested ridge before the main Alpine wall.